Morocco
Emergency Response
Marrakesh–Safi earthquake, September 2023
A Devasting Impact
Morocco was rattled by a powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake in September, claiming almost 3,000 lives. The disaster had a profound impact on people, many of whom are still struggling after the deadly event.
Houses in settlements across the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains were destroyed, leaving many communities barely recognisable and almost completely destroyed. Access to clean water remains a significant concern in the makeshift settlements that house hundreds of families.
Our Work to Provide Support to Survivors
Planet Water Foundation’s response commenced with the airlifting of our AquaBlock emergency water systems from our global logistics hub into Casablanca, from where they were transported via land into the disaster zone.
In parallel, our Disaster Response team flew to Morocco to coordinate with local authorities and deployment partners, making sure that all water filtration systems would be installed in communities that need safe water the most.
“This relocation site in Ouirgane including all of the facilities was made possible through the efforts and donations of the government and other organizations. We are very thankful for the water filtration system that can help a lot of people affected by the earthquake. We will forever be grateful because we are assured that the water flowing from the faucets is safe for our people, especially our children who are vulnerable to diseases.”
Brahim,
Resident of Ouirgane
“My family was from one of the villages in the High Atlas Mountains. We were very frightened during the earthquake because it was really strong. Some of our friends and neighbors died on that day, and our houses were destroyed. We are very thankful that there was help from organizations. We are not sure how many months we will be staying in this camp, but I’m certain that the water filtration system will help us a lot because we need clean drinking water to survive.”
Ibrahim,
Resident of Asni
Through the support from our donors, the Planet Water Foundation team deployed six AquaBlock systems in Ouirgane, Taoukarte, Lkdim, Asni, Tinzert, and Asselda to provide safe drinking water to survivors of the earthquake there. After installation, our team conducted a step-by-step training on the systems to the teams who will be responsible for operations and maintenance.
AquaBlock Emergency Water System
Planet Water’s AquaBlock Emergency Water System produces 1,500 liters of clean water per hour and can support the daily water requirements of up to 10,000 people. It removes bacteria, protozoa, viruses, pathogens and other contaminants greater than 0.01 micron, and will assist in the immediate drinking water needs of survivors.
